Great Start Collaborative (GSC) 

The Great Start Collaborative (GSC) is a unique mixture of dedicated individuals working to improve early childhood systems in Lapeer County. Members include parents, service agencies, schools, churches, nonprofit organizations, the hospital, child care providers and many more.

We know that each year too many children enter kindergarten with previously unidentified health, social-emotional or learning problems. Parents of young children, across our county, lack easy access to information and resources in their communities that can help them in their role as their child’s first and most important teachers.

Research studies have demonstrated that investment in the first five years of life pays high dividends both to the public and to the individual. In fact for each dollar spent before age five, there is a $7.00 - $17.00 rate of return that is realized through increased success in high school, higher earning employment opportunities and a decreased likelihood of incarceration. 

If you would like to know more about the work of the GSC or become involved, contact Linda DeTavernier, GSC Coordinator at 810-245-3990 or email at: [email protected] 

Parents are busy people, so let us tell you quickly: 
     The Great Start Parent Coalition (GSPC) is a group of parents who care about young children and their community.  We welcome parents, foster parents, grandparents raising their grandchildren, and anyone who is looking to connect with others and help to bring about positive changes for families with young children.  
     You can participate at your comfort level, through one or more ways, such as: 

• Like and Follow one or several local Great Start Facebook pages 
• Sign up to receive emails, including a monthly calendar of local events
• Share information with friends and families
• Attend a meeting to meet others in the group
• Meet other parents who care about children and want to help others

There is no fund raising, no dues, no requirement to attend meetings. We want to help parents with young children know their voice has a place to be heard.  Want to learn more?  Call the Great Start Parent Liaison, Anita, at 810-245-3994, or email her at [email protected] she would love to talk with you.   

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This site was developed under a grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education